Can the new LDV eT60 EV tow? Maximum towing capacity of the eT60 – need a LDV eT60 towbar?

Can the new -LDV eT60 EV tow?  Maximum towing capacity of the eT60 – need a LDV eT60 towbar?

​The LDV eT60 is Australia's inaugural electric dual-cab ute, marking a significant milestone in the country's automotive landscape. Priced at $92,990, it is more than double the cost of its diesel counterpart, the T60 Max Pro, which starts at $43,148. This steep pricing positions the eT60 beyond the reach of many potential buyers and above the threshold for government incentives.

Under the hood, the eT60 features an 88.5kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a WLTP-rated range of 330 kilometers. However, towing at maximum capacity can reduce this range by up to 50%. The rear-mounted electric motor produces 130kW and 310Nm, which is less powerful than the 160kW/500Nm twin-turbo diesel engine in the T60. Charging from 20% to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes using an 80kW DC fast charger, while a full charge via an 11kW wallbox requires about nine hours. ​

In terms of utility, the eT60 offers a payload capacity of 1000 kilograms, slightly higher than some diesel variants. However, its braked towing capacity is limited to 1000 kilograms, significantly less than the diesel model's 3000 kilograms.

The eT60's equipment includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay, six-way electrically adjustable front seats, and a reversing camera with parking sensors. However, it lacks features such as cruise control, Android Auto, keyless entry, and push-button start. Notably, it is missing advanced safety systems like autonomous emergency braking, rear-cross traffic alert, lane-keep assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Consequently, it's unclear if the eT60 maintains the five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved by the diesel T60 Max in 2017.

Driving the eT60 reveals sharper initial acceleration compared to its diesel counterpart, but overall performance is considered lackluster. The ride and handling are sub-par, and its off-road capabilities are diminished.

The LDV eT60 has a braked towing capacity of only 1000 kg, which is significantly lower than the 3000 kg capacity of its diesel counterpart, the LDV T60 Max. This limited towing ability is one of the ute’s biggest drawbacks, making it less suitable for tradies, farmers, or anyone who needs to tow trailers, boats, or caravans.

How Towing Affects Range

• The eT60 has a 330 km WLTP-rated range on a full charge.
• However, towing a heavy load can halve this range, meaning you might only get around 150-170 km before needing to recharge.
• This makes it challenging for long-distance travel, especially in rural areas with fewer charging stations.

Charging Considerations When Towing

• If you need to recharge mid-trip while towing, you may have to unhitch your trailer, as many charging stations don’t have drive-through access.
• A 20-80% charge takes about 45 minutes using an 80kW DC fast charger.

The LDV eT60 is not an ideal choice for towing-heavy users. While it works for light towing tasks, such as small trailers or lightweight equipment, it falls short compared to traditional diesel utes.

In summary, while the LDV eT60 pioneers electrification in Australia's ute segment, its high price, limited towing capacity, and absence of key features and safety technologies may deter potential buyers. It primarily appeals to fleets and organizations committed to reducing emissions, rather than individual consumers seeking a versatile and capable utility vehicle

Increase the practicality of your LDV by fitting our eT60 towbar.  Order your LDV eT60 towbar today.